Maruti Suzuki Jimny EV might be launched in 2026

Suzuki has recently announced plans to launch the Jimny EV in the European market by 2026, marking a significant step in the company's efforts to expand its lineup of electric vehicles. The Jimny EV is expected to retain the off-road capabilities that have made the Petrol-powered Jimny a fan favorite while offering a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly option for consumers.

The Maruti Suzuki Jimmy has been the talk of the town since its launch in India. But did you know that the company is already planning an all-electric version of this iconic off-roader? With many countries phasing out ICE vehicles, including the Jimmy, Suzuki is keen on continuing the legacy of this vehicle by transforming it into an electric offering.

Sustainability and Environmental Friendliness

The Jimny EV will be a significant step forward in Suzuki's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainability in the automotive industry. The electric powertrain will emit zero emissions, making it a more environmentally-friendly option than its Petrol-powered counterpart. Furthermore, the Jimny EV is expected to be built using sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, which will further reduce its environmental impact.

Jimmy's Commercial Success in Europe Due to the high CO2 emissions of the current-generation Jimny, it is already being sold as a commercial vehicle in Europe. This has allowed the company to follow different rules than those for passenger vehicles. As Suzuki plans to introduce electric vehicles in Europe, the boxy silhouette of the Jimmy is among the upcoming EVs for the market. The 3-door version will be the first to get electrified, and the company might consider working on the 5-door off-roader later.

Efficient Electric Powertrain

The Jimny EV is expected to feature an efficient electric powertrain that will provide ample power and torque for off-road adventures, while also offering impressive range and fuel efficiency. The electric powertrain is also expected to be more reliable and require less maintenance than its Petrol-powered counterpart, which will be a significant advantage for off-road enthusiasts.

Challenges of an Electric Jimmy Transforming the Jimmy into an electric offering will pose a challenge for Suzuki. The ladder on the frame chassis that gives the vehicle its robustness takes up significant space, which could be used for a battery pack. The battery pack is expected to have a capacity of 60 kWh, which could be borrowed from the eVX Concept that was showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo. Although the Ford F-150 Lightning is one body-on-frame vehicle that retained its dimensions and functionality in its electric version, retrofitting the Jimmy with an electric powertrain will be no easy feat.

Advanced Safety Features

In addition to its impressive off-road capabilities and efficient electric powertrain, the Jimny EV is expected to offer a range of advanced safety features to ensure the safety of its occupants. These features may include advanced driver-assistance systems, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning, as well as a range of passive safety features, such as airbags and reinforced body construction.

The Powertrain and Capabilities of the Electric Jimmy Maruti is expected to install two motors, one on each axle, to provide a four-wheel-drive option. The dual motors will act independently and offer better off-road capability than the ICE version. However, the weight of the large battery pack could offset the savings in weight and ability. This is where the 5-door Jimmy could be a better candidate for electrification than the 3-door version.

Looking Ahead The all-electric Maruti Suzuki Jimmy is still in the planning phase, but it holds great potential. Suzuki is committed to continuing the legacy of this iconic off-roader, and electrification is the way to go. As other car manufacturers also look to electrify their existing portfolio, the future of off-roading seems to be electric.